Te Papa buys Peter Snell singlet

Te Papa buys Peter Snell singlet

Te Papa has purchased the singlet worn by Peter Snell at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics at an auction this morning at Cordy’s auction house in Auckland.

The hammer price was $122,500, with buyer’s premium the museum will pay a total of $140,875 for the iconic garment.

Te Papa Chief Executive Rick Ellis said he was thrilled to acquire the singlet for New Zealanders.

“It’s a great thrill for New Zealand and an item that has so much to tell us about our history, and the history of sport,” says Mr Ellis.

Te Papa would look to put the singlet on display, but it is too soon to say when and how.

“When the singlet goes on display we will make sure that New Zealand knows about it,” says Mr Ellis.

This singlet is significant because Peter Snell wore it when he won gold in both the 800 and 1500 metre races at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. He remains the only man since 1920 to have won the 800m and 1500m at the same Olympic Games.

The auction lot is the singlet, framed with reproduction photographs, signature, and accompanying book by Peter Snell. Te Papa will remove the singlet from the frame and retain the extra items.

ENDS

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